B-Devils debate goalies ahead of home opener

BINGHAMTON (WBNG) -- Following a short preseason slate, which featured just two games - both against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins - the B-Devils now must figure out their roster ahead of Saturday's home opener.

As of Monday, Binghamton has three netminders on its roster: Scott Wedgewood, Ken Appleby and Mackenzie Blackwood.

Last year, Wedgewood was the go-to up in Albany before dealing with injury. The Brampton, Ontario native started Friday night in the B-Devils 6-2 loss on the road against the Pens. Wedgewood gave up all six goals, stopping 24 of the 30 shots he faced. Wedgewood played in 10 games with Albany last year, posting a 2.18 GAA.

In Sunday's game at the Floyd L. Maines Veterans Memorial Arena, Mackenzie Blackwood started between the pipes. He swatted away 25 of the 26 shots he faced, helping the B-Devils pick up a 3-1 win over the Pens. The Thunder Bay, Ontario native played in 36 games last season for Albany, posting a 2.55 GAA and three shutouts.

So, some tough decisions are in store this coming week for the New Jersey Devils, as well as Binghamton head coach Rick Kowalsky and his B-Devils.

"Honestly, [Ken] Appleby and [Mackenzie Blackwood] split last year because of the Wedgewood injury," said Kowalsky following Sunday's win. "A year ago, Wedgewood was the clear-cut number one, and certainly played more games in the American League and has more experience, so they're making our decision tough, which is what you want, and we'll continue to consult with the people that have seen them play and come to a decision later on in the week."